Words by Deyanan Sehi

Photos by @Hoodrichdulla and @golld.au

We’re no strangers to the transformation of the UK rap scene;  a cultural genre that has evolved from a space of collective voices with social commentary over aggressive beats to one that now rejects marketability in favour of progressive creativity. This evolution has opened a spotlight for artists like Len, an underground sensation hailing from South London’s Stockwell, who constantly toys with the boundaries of UK rap.  

Initially debuting on Soundcloud in 2017, he often draws inspiration from Freddie Mercury which is even reflected in his visual image. It would be an insult to deduce his music to a single genre, as he confidently experiments with afro-futuristic approaches and at times adopts a dark trap sound. With his recent collaboration with Lancey and Fimi, he has joined forces to build on his momentum and his success has since been remarkably linear, earning himself a dedicated following. 

Len’s music evolves, greeting the scene with sounds like “Solace,” a comfortable medley of garage and rap, and “Chosen” and “Kylie Minogue,” to which he adds his own distinctive take to UK rap. The sound he debuted with is far different from the one that manifests today. With notable influence from Lancey Foux, he fosters a sound that redefines masculinity in a way that celebrates sensuality and feeling sexy.

In a genre that traditionally uses a reactionary form of masculinity, where strength and perseverance are tools of defence against the social economic hardships of themes such as poverty and social exclusion— Len’s approach is refreshingly different. He is constantly pushing the boundaries of masculinity in UK rap by embracing sensuality and celebrating feeling sexy. His music encourages confidence and self-expression and offers a more celebratory version of masculinity not defined by either struggle or toughness. 

Len’s music offers a space for broad expressions of masculinity to his fans, encouraging both his female and male audiences alike to champion their sexiness. His masculinity is rooted in self-assurance and a carefree attitude, inviting his audience to dance over his afro futuristic sounds and his playful lyrics. In his track “YaToo” for instance, he refrains the lines “you’re too sexy” where he champions a particular lady’s sexiness over a groovy and innovative futuristic sound which reinforces his ranking in UK rap. Similarly, his 2024 Project COBALT:SOMUCHMORE with songs like “TELLMeSUM”, “BUSSDoWN” and “RIGHTHaND” which shows his own spin on grime and jerk and adds an energetic yet polished electronic flair. These tracks, paired with their playful lyrics, compel you to an inevitable groove. It would be illegal not to sway your hips to them! 

In a past interview, Len confirmed his mission in delivering tracks that urge people to feel empowered in their sexiness. His versatile soundscape is a testament to his creativity but signals a bright future for the UK alt-rap scene. It is exciting to see what’s in store for him as he confidently affirms his ranking at the forefront of the UK alt-rap scene.